Creating an affirming environment for LGBTQ youth
Family acceptance is vital to the mental health of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Family acceptance is associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Conversely, rejection can lead to severe mental health challenges, including increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Below is a list of resources from our experts for caregivers seeking help creating an affirming environment for children with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (SOGIE).
Understanding my LGBTQ Youth:
- Family Acceptance Project
- Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD)
- Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN)
- Gay-Straight Alliance Network
- Human Rights Campaign
- Intersex Society of North America (ISNA)
- Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund
- My Kid Is Gay: Helping Families Understand Their LGBTQ Kids
- National Center for Lesbian Rights
- National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
- PFLAG Family Content
- “This Is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids: A Question & Answer Guide to Everyday Life” by Dannielle Owens-Reid
Addressing Religious Concerns
Supporting my LGBTQ Youth
- Bisexual Resource Center
- It Gets Better Project
- Lavender Youth Recreation and Information Center (LYRIC)
- The National Youth Advocacy Coalition (NYAC)
- Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL)
- The Trevor Project
- Video: Why I chose my LGBTQ daughter over the Evangelical Church – Susan Cottrell
- Video: 4 Tips for Coming Out to Your Parents
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